Contract Administrator

Position Overview

The Contracts Administrator plays a pivotal role in the operational success of the SGB Cape Durban Branch, focusing on the commercial and administrative oversight of contracts in scaffolding, insulation, painting, blasting and cladding projects. From contract handover to final close-out, this position ensures adherence to contractual terms, maximises profitability through precise revenue recognition and cost management, minimises risks through robust documentation, claims processing, variation handling and stakeholder communication. The role champions commercial discipline while supporting seamless project delivery, contributing to overall branch performance and client satisfaction.

This position focuses on the KwaZulu-Natal region, potentially extending to adjacent provinces or cross-border projects as required. It directly impacts branch EBIT through efficient contract billing, variation recovery, cost control and dispute resolution. Travel demands are moderate to high, with an estimation of 30-50% of time spent on regional site visits.

Key Responsibilities

Contract Execution & Administration

• Manage end-to-end contract administration from commercial handover to project close-out.
• Maintain accurate contract documentation, registers, and correspondence in compliance with Waco standards.
• Interpret contract terms and ensure obligations (scope, deliverables, and timelines) are tracked and met.
• Coordinate with Site / Contract Managers and Branch Manager on progress claims, variation orders, and contractual notices.
• Prepare and submit monthly progress claims, supporting documentation, and payment certificates on time.

Financial & Cost Management

• Monitor project cost to tender and scope vs. revenue earned; identify margin leakage early and recommend corrective actions.
• Validate and reconcile claims against site progress and contractual scope.
• Ensure adherence to Waco pricing and variation protocols to protect branch profitability.
• Support monthly forecasting and cash flow reporting for the Branch Manager and Commercial team.

Scope & Variation Control

• Review project scope against estimate and formalise all changes through approved variation orders.
• Maintain variation registers and ensure client approvals are documented before implementation.
• Collaborate with site teams to identify, price, and claim legitimate scope growth or extensions.

Risk, Quality & Compliance

• Contribute to branch risk registers, identifying contractual and commercial risks with mitigation plans.
• Ensure adherence to Group policies, safety standards, and ISO-aligned documentation practices.
• Participate in internal audits and implement corrective actions promptly.
• Maintain auditable records to support external or client audits.
• Highlight when forecast margins to complete project are potentially below tendered margins.

Stakeholder & Client Engagement

• Build professional relationships with client contract administrators and quantity surveyors.
• Resolve commercial disputes efficiently and maintain a collaborative client interface.
• Support branch commercial meetings and project reviews by providing accurate reporting inputs.

Qualifications, Experience & Competencies

• Diploma or Degree in
  Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or Accounting
  – CIMA, CA, BCom (advantageous).
• Minimum
  5–8 years' experience
  in contract administration or commercial control within the construction/scaffolding sector.
• Strong working knowledge of
  FIDIC
  ,
  JBCC
  , or similar construction contract frameworks.
• Proficient in
  Microsoft Excel
  , ERP, and document management systems.
• Demonstrated financial literacy and cost-tracking capability.
• Strong commercial acumen and attention to contractual detail.
• Analytical and deadline-driven with a high sense of accountability.
• Clear communicator, able to influence site teams and clients alike.
• Team player with a collaborative, customer-centric approach.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.